The Importance of English Communication Skills of 2nd Students at Department of English, Savannakhet University

Abstract

This study aims to examine the current level of English communication skills among second-year students in the Department of English at Savannakhet University. It also explores students’ perceptions of the importance of English communication in their academic and professional lives and identifies the challenges they face in developing these skills. A quantitative research design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 25 second-year English major students. The questionnaire covered five main language areas listening, speaking, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar along with student perceptions, academic performance, career readiness, personal development, and common communication challenges such as limited vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation issues, and lack of practice, passive learning, and limited feedback. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (Mean and Standard Deviation). Findings revealed that students perceive English communication skills as very important, especially in relation to career readiness (x̅ = 4.41), academic performance (x̅ = 4.18), and personal confidence (x̅ = 4.20). Listening (x̅ = 4.32) and pronunciation (x̅ = 4.17) were identified as essential subskills, while speaking, vocabulary, and grammar were viewed as important but more challenging. Major obstacles included lack of practice (x̅ = 4.24), limited feedback (x̅ = 4.19), passive learning environments (x̅ = 3.93), and unclear pronunciation (x̅ = 3.95). These challenges hinder fluency, confidence, and real-life communication competence. The study recommends creating more interactive, student-centered learning environments that emphasize communicative tasks. Teachers should provide more frequent and personalized feedback and encourage practice both inside and outside the classroom. Additionally, integrating career-related communication practice and building students’ confidence through group discussions, role-plays, and presentations will help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world communication demands.